I read this book because I reread the similarly setup The Sparrow & Children of God by Mary Doria Russell, some of my favorite books. Russell wrote a lot more about Jesuits in general and the Jesuits she sent into space. Russell's Jesuits' trips to Rakhat were very similar to Isaac Jogues (sp) trips to the New World. In fact, it could be said that Russell was writing historical fiction as well as science fiction. If you are interested I strongly recommend The Sparrow. My recommendation for A Case of Conscience is more tepid.
But you're reading this to find out about Blish. Blish writing in 1958 was understandably writing very much pre- Vatican 2. His priest does not question God. Or the Pope. Ever. This is a static book. It's a lot of talk, it's about ideas, they are very big ideas, but that has to be a kind of (science)fiction you are interested in. It's worth reading, but don't let this be the only sf you read.
But you're reading this to find out about Blish. Blish writing in 1958 was understandably writing very much pre- Vatican 2. His priest does not question God. Or the Pope. Ever. This is a static book. It's a lot of talk, it's about ideas, they are very big ideas, but that has to be a kind of (science)fiction you are interested in. It's worth reading, but don't let this be the only sf you read.
